Size: 23mm x 15mm We have 6 variations of this piece to choose from:
Product Information
Shipping and Delivery Dates
Returns
Loading...
Why Choose Pounamu
If you're looking for a reason to buy something meaningful, and haven't quite made your mind up yet, read our top 10 reasons to gift. From supporting local artists, to the deep meaning associated to the stone.
What our customers are saying
5.0
5 stars
4 Reviews
5.0
5 stars
Reviews
5 Stars
“Nothing bad to say :) another beautiful piece, bought for my nephew for Xmas.
Delivery was top notch, by far the best service I’ve received :) thank you so much.”
– Jeremiah
27 December 2023
5.0
5 stars
Reviews
5 Stars
“Came as described. Yet another beautiful piece. Very happy :)”
– Jeremiah
27 December 2023
5.0
5 stars
Reviews
5 Stars
“Beautiful piece.”
– Jeremiah
27 December 2023
Our Packaging
We consider every element we use, when packing your piece. From sustainable materials to meaningful details such as artist profile cards. We offer a Premium Gift Wrapping service, available at the checkout.
Our Promise
Hand carved
Smooth lines, soft finishes, no scratches and no cuts.
Sustainable packaging
Wherever possible we use sustainable packaging.
Gift wrapping
We offer a Premium Gift Wrapping service.
Free shipping
On all domestic orders.
The Toki is a symbol of strength and determination
Once a tool wielded by Māori, when worn around the neck the Toki represents courage, and with courage comes strength and power.The Toki holds great significance in Māori culture as a powerful symbol of mana (prestige) and honour.
Ernesto Ovalle
The artist behind this creationHailing all the way from Columbia, Ernesto is joined by his son Sebastian and daughter Manuela, to form their jewellery studio - Oro Negro. Ernesto moved to Aotearoa in 1999 and quickly drew comparisons between his Columbian indigenous tribe - Musica - and the Māori culture. With a desire to create contemporary jewellery as in his homeland, he attended Tai Poutini Polytechnic in Greymouth to learn the craft of stone carving, before refining his talents at Elam School of Fine Arts.
Traditionally, the toki or adze was expertly lashed to carved wooden shafts and wielded as tools and ceremonial objects by Māori.
The Toki
Toki are now worn around the neck as a symbol of strength and courage. This association links back to when toki blades crafted from pounamu were used as woodcutting tools due to pounamu's exceptional strength. It is said the Toki takes on the mauri or life force of the wearer, and this essence is passed from generation to generation.